DELTA: Okowa, Nwoko, Omo-Agege, Dafinone, others in rumble for APC senate tickets
Senatorial Contest in Delta State Heats Up Ahead of 2027 Elections
By Egufe Yafugborhi
As political aspirations intensify for the three senatorial seats in Delta State for the 2027 elections, prevailing popularity, pedigree, and experience among candidates may take a backseat to party structure and endorsements.
Key decisions will be influenced by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) structure, which is tightly controlled by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Many believe that without intervention from President Bola Tinubu, the party’s internal dynamics will be the deciding factor in candidate selection for Delta North, Delta South, and Delta Central districts.
Okowa Challenges Nwoko for Delta North Seat
In Delta North, a significant showdown is unfolding between incumbent Senator Ned Nwoko and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who was also a 2023 Vice Presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Former Delta State House of Assembly Speaker Victor Ochei is also in the mix, though insights suggest a two-horse race.
Nwoko had previously appeared set to secure the party’s nomination, but Okowa’s entry has complicated matters. Okowa’s extensive political experience and established connections give him an edge, particularly in mastering political discourse and mobilizing support.
During a recent consultation with stakeholders in Oshimili South—traditionally a Nwoko stronghold—Okowa criticized Nwoko for alleged “deception” regarding the push for an Anioma State. This challenge seeks to undermine Nwoko’s primary selling point, which has been pivotal in attracting votes from the Delta North electorate.
Despite Okowa’s strong persona, he carries vulnerabilities stemming from his previous Vice Presidential bid, which failed to unite party factions. Some stakeholders accuse him of concentrating development efforts in his own constituency during his governorship, thereby alienating others.
Delta North political insiders predict Okowa’s consolidation of support is likely to give him the upper hand in the primaries. A close associate of the governor hinted at a reciprocal relationship, claiming Okowa’s efforts were instrumental in Oborevwori’s rise to power and that now is the time for payback.
Nwoko remains aware that appealing for the support of President Tinubu may be his best option to counter Okowa’s momentum. Suggestions have emerged that alignment with national interests could alter the dynamics similarly to previous cases in Nigerian politics.
Delta Central: Omo-Agege vs. Dafinone
In Delta Central, a competitive race is forming between former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege and incumbent Senator Ede Dafinone. The political ramifications could be significant, especially regarding Oborevwori’s potential favoritism.
During the 2023 election cycle, Oborevwori campaigned against Dafinone, indicating that the two candidates from the same Okpe constituency could not coexist in governance. Both candidates triumphed in the 2023 election, which complicates the current landscape.
Dafinone, seeking reelection under the APC banner, faces Omo-Agege, who commands significant recognition. However, recent support from key political players, including party founder Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, enhances Dafinone’s position.
Local political commentary suggests that Omo-Agege’s earlier withdrawal from party activities has created a divide, portraying him as disconnected from the current administration’s strategies. Yet, observers note that the Deputy Senate President’s influence and ties to national leadership remain formidable.
Thomas Seeks Reelection in Delta South’s Favorable Climate
Among Delta’s current senators, Joel-Onowakpor Thomas appears to be in a secure position for reelection. His opposition landscape lacks the intensity faced by candidates in the other districts.
An essential factor bolstering Thomas’s position is the tacit agreement among Delta’s political factions that the governorship will rotate to Delta South in 2031. This political calculus has prompted an easing of conflict within the region as the Ijaw ethnic group positions itself for future leadership.
The Isoko Development Union has also expressed its support for Thomas, further solidifying his path ahead of the APC primaries. Other potential candidates do not seem poised to pose a significant challenge.
With these dynamics in play, it seems Thomas is well-positioned to secure the Delta South senatorial ticket as he seeks to affirm his role in the upcoming political landscape.
